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Science

The importance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to everyday life can hardly be overstated. Individuals trained to observe and understand nature and the products of modern invention will be equipped to better understand the impact of technological advances and to be wiser consumers and stewards of the environment.

Minimum Required Sequence—3 years of science

Biology, Chemistry, and one other science course

Recommended Sequence—4 years of science

Biology

Two semesters, one credit. Required for freshmen.

This course is offered to freshmen as well as incoming juniors and seniors who have not had high school biology at another school. National Science Education Standards for secondary life sciences are followed. This course emphasizes the unity and interrelationships of living things. Major topics include cell structure and function, energy, cell processes, genetics, reproduction, evolution, biodiversity, populations and communities, humans and the biosphere, taxonomy, and ecology. Principia’s 360-acre campus provides numerous opportunities for field study in our own “outdoor laboratory.”

Chemistry

Two semesters, one credit. Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1.

Chemistry is the study of matter and energy from a molecular point of view. Students will participate in inquiry-based laboratory experiments and comprehensive projects that provide opportunities to synthesize and transfer the chemistry they learn to the world around them. In this STEM course, students are expected to collect and interpret data, utilize the engineering design cycle, and implement collaborative learning strategies. Content includes, but is not limited to, atomic structure and the Periodic Table, reactions and equations, chemical calculations and the mole, gas laws, and acid-base chemistry.

Computer-Assisted Drafting

This course will focus on drawing designs for manufacturing parts and assembly, using Autodesk Inventor. Students will learn the basics for drawing on the computer; selecting a plane to sketch on; determining shapes; and sketching. They will use the program to convert 2D sketches into 3D designs. The students will assemble projects from computer designs and create parts for building machines and robots. Students may elect to take the Autodesk Inventor certification test.

Experiential Physics

Ever wondered how cars work? How rockets blast off into space? What keeps a bridge from falling? This project-based course introduces fundamental concepts of physics with an emphasis on applications to the world around us. (It does not make extensive use of mathematics.) Laboratory experiments, hands-on projects, and computer-based exercises solidify the understanding of basic physics principles and applications. Key topics include concepts of motion, forces, energy, and electricity.

Physics

This accelerated, lab-based course emphasizes scientific thinking and prepares students for college-level science. Students are challenged to logically reason and problem solve via in-depth study of concepts in classical mechanics—motion, forces (Newton’s laws), energy, momentum, waves, electricity, and magnetism. This course links algebra, trigonometry, and vectors with physics applications through study of fundamental particles and the equations that describe them in the universe.

Robotics

This STEM course teaches engineering principles through the VEX and TETRIX robotics systems, which involve building and programming various types of robots using Robot C and Java coding. Students design robots for different tasks, using multiple sensors (light, sound, color, touch, radar). The “engineering design cycle” of goal, inputs, process, outputs, and feedback is used in each project. Students will create, collaborate, communicate, and use critical thinking skills as they undertake a variety of robotics and engineering projects. Student teams will participate in local and regional competitions.

Sustainability, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship

Two semesters, one and one-half credit. Prerequisite: Completion of Biology or permission of instructor.

This course combines the principles of sustainability and ecosystem function with the innovation and drive of entrepreneurship. Students will solve authentic local challenges relating to social and environmental sustainability using creative and strategic thinking skills. Key topics explored include energy use, resource management, climate change, water, population, and sustainable urban design. Students will engage in business development, the Missouri Green Schools Quest, and field trips around St. Louis, as well as labs and discussions.

College-Credit Courses

College Chemistry (Dual Enrollment/College Credit)

Two semesters, one college credit. Prerequisites: first-year Chemistry; Biology; successful completion of Algebra 2 (B or better, every semester); minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Requires instructor approval. Upon completion of this course, students receive credit at both the Upper School and at Principia College.

This course develops problem-solving and research skills. It covers atomic structure, stoichiometry, bonding, gases, liquids, solids, solutions, kinetics, and equilibrium concepts and includes labs. This is a rigorous class, designed for college-bound students interested in majoring in science or engineering.

Field and Natural History (Dual Enrollment / College Credit)

Two semesters, one college credit. Prerequisites: Completion of Biology and Chemistry; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0; instructor approval. Upon completion of this course, students receive credit at both the Upper School and at Principia College.

This college-level course studies local plants and animals in their natural environment and in relation to humankind. The emphasis is on conservation, nature interpretation, observation, and field-research skills. Natural history is explored through field exercises as well as literature. Field research is extended with a weeklong, residential program at the Teton Science Schools in Jackson, Wyoming.